After Thursday’s practice in El Segundo, we learned that Pau Gasol would miss his second consecutive game when the Mavericks come to town for a 7:30 PM tip at STAPLES Center.

Phil Jackson, however, remains unconcerned with Gasol’s hamstring strain and said that the team is simply being overly cautious to ensure that the Spanish big man is entirely comfortable when he returns.

“We’re not worried about it,” he said. “We’re just taking it real slow. Don’t you worry about it.”

Jackson also suggested that Gasol might be able to play in Sunday’s game against Atlanta.

But until Gasol plays, the very capable Lamar Odom (16 points and 13 rebounds in L.A.’s opening win) will slide into Pau’s spot in the rotation, and against Dallas be charged with defending Dirk Nowitzki, which Gasol did very well last season. Jackson added that having Ron Artest – who can also guard Nowitzki – on the roster makes it easier to be cautious with Gasol, since Artest is so versatile at both ends of the floor.